Australian LGBTQIA+ travellers warned of heightened risks under new us gender‑based visa rules

Equality Australia has issued updated safety advice for LGBTQIA+ people travelling to the United States, warning that new US visa and border rules pose escalating risks for trans and gender‑diverse travellers. The organisation’s legal adviser, Heather Corkhill, said the guidance was revised in response to the ongoing rollout of anti‑trans policies affecting visa and entry processes.

The concern follows the US State Department’s decision to finalise new requirements for Diversity Immigrant Visa applicants, taking effect on 10 April. Under the changes, applicants must provide additional passport information and comply with the Trump‑era definition of “biological sex,” raising alarm among advocates.

According to Corkhill, travel to the US now carries “serious risks,” particularly for those who use an X gender marker, have updated gender details, or have any visible history of LGBTQIA+ activism. She noted that travellers from other countries have already reported detentions and refusals of entry—some resulting in long‑term or permanent bans.

This isn’t the first caution issued to queer Australians. The Australian government’s Smart Traveller service warned in 2023 that passports displaying an X gender marker, though valid internationally, cannot guarantee safe entry or transit in all countries. Equality Australia is urging travellers to seek advice from DFAT and consult the US consulate or a migration lawyer before departing.

Even once inside the US, Corkhill said travel is becoming more complicated as several states introduce laws restricting access to bathrooms and other single‑sex spaces, further affecting trans and gender‑diverse visitors. Equality Australia continues to monitor reports of entry issues and encourages affected travellers to contact them.

The updated guidance highlights growing barriers and safety risks for trans and gender‑diverse people travelling internationally, underscoring the need for vigilance and legal support.